Fine & Country is strengthening its presence in the Middle East with plans for further expansion in Dubai following a new licence agreement with experienced real estate professional, Mike Birkett.
Birkett (main picture, inset) joins Michael and Agnes Heming, Master Licensees of Fine & Country Dubai, as the new licensee for the city – a key hub in the brand’s international network.
Having joined Fine & Country in 2017 at the Fourways office in South Africa, Birkett quickly established himself within the business, becoming a shareholder by 2020 and helping the operation expand across five suburbs while retaining its boutique ethos.
He says: “Dubai is a hub of economic activity with few barriers to property ownership for foreigners, and its popularity worldwide is growing rapidly.”
BUSINESS FRIENDLY
And he adds: “The property market in Dubai offers strong capital appreciation, developer-backed payment plans, and a business-friendly environment that makes it one of the most exciting investment destinations globally.”
Initially, Birkett will focus on Dubai’s buoyant off-plan market, where developer-led payment structures and flexible entry points are attracting a new wave of international investors.
FIRST-TIME BUYERS
Typically, a 20% deposit is followed by staged payments, with the balance due on completion – an appealing model for both seasoned and first-time buyers.
“The property market in Dubai is very open to expats and continues to grow at astronomical levels,” Birkett says.
“I see Dubai as the ideal investment hub for our clients, where you can have capital appreciation, great tax benefits, a warm climate, beaches and easy access to travel opportunities. It is the perfect investment hub for our international clients.”
FINE & COUNTRY MIDDLE EAST HUB
Looking ahead, Michael and Agnes Heming plan to build out Fine & Country’s footprint across the UAE, with ambitions to create a Fine & Country Middle East hub in Dubai, supported by a growing team of agents delivering the brand’s hallmark boutique service.
Jonathan Handford, Interim Managing Director of Fine & Country, says: “We are excited to see where Mike and his team can take the Dubai region.
“His proven experience within the Fine & Country network and his strong vision for the UAE will play an important role in strengthening our global brand.
“Dubai is one of the most exciting real estate markets in the world, and we are confident that Fine & Country Dubai will provide an exceptional service to both local and international clients.”
